10 Landed Property for Rent in Singapore

Landed houses in Singapore, such as bungalows, semi-detached houses, and terrace houses, offer expansive living spaces with greater privacy. These are ideal for larger families or those seeking a more exclusive lifestyle. While they come at a premium price, opting for rental houses may be a feasible choice for those looking for temporary housing. Renting landed homes in Singapore often provides the luxury of private gardens and spacious interiors, located in serene residential neighbourhoods.

Understanding lease terms and conditions

When renting a landed property in Singapore, it is essential to familiarise yourself with the lease terms and conditions. Key aspects include the lease duration, early termination clauses, and renewal options. Tenants should also confirm who is responsible for maintenance and repairs, as well as the coverage of utility bills. Ensuring clarity in these areas helps avoid potential disputes during the tenancy period. Engaging a property agent or legal advisor can provide added assurance when reviewing house rental agreements.

Rental Stamp Duty: Who pays for it?

When renting a landed property in Singapore, tenants are required to pay rental stamp duty. This is a tax imposed by the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) on the rental agreement and is calculated as follows:

• Lease term of up to 4 years: 0.4% of the total rent payable over the lease period.
• Lease term exceeding 4 years: 0.4% of four times the annual rent.

Tenants are responsible for paying the stamp duty, which must be settled within 14 days of signing the tenancy agreement. Failure to do so may result in penalties. However, if the Average Annual Rent (AAR) does not exceed S$1,000, rental stamp duty is exempted.

Furnished vs unfurnished rental house

Tenants in Singapore can choose between furnished and unfurnished landed home rentals, depending on their needs. Furnished homes usually come equipped with essential furniture and appliances, offering convenience and saving on upfront costs. Furnished home rentals are ideal for expatriates or tenants staying for shorter durations. However, the rental price may be higher, and there might be limited flexibility to personalise the space.

On the other hand, unfurnished homes are typically bare units, allowing tenants to bring in their own furniture and customise the space to their liking. Unfurnished rental homes are better suited for long-term renters or families relocating with existing furniture. They often come at a lower rental rate but may require higher initial setup costs.

Prestigious locations for landed houses in Singapore

If you’re exploring houses for rent in Singapore, these districts are known to be prestigious for landed homes:

• Districts 9, 10, and 11: These central locations are highly coveted for their proximity to top schools such as Nanyang Primary, Raffles Girls' Primary School, Singapore Chinese Girls' School, and Henry Park Primary School. The neighbourhoods are also near prime shopping and dining hubs like Orchard Road and Holland Village.
• Districts 15 and 16: Situated in the East Coast area, these districts are popular for their seaside charm, recreational options, and established international schools.
• District 21: Known for its lush greenery and serene surroundings, this district is attractive to families seeking a peaceful environment while remaining well-connected to the city.

Can foreigners rent landed homes in Singapore?

Yes, houses for rent are on the table for expats. Foreigners are permitted to rent landed properties in Singapore without restrictions. However, note that all documents you present during the signing of the Tenancy Agreement (TA) should have at least a validity period of 6 months to the application date.

To kickstart your rental house hunting in Singapore: Popular expatriate-friendly neighbourhoods include the East Coast, Bukit Timah, and Sentosa Cove. These areas offer a mix of spacious landed homes and proximity to international schools, expatriate communities, and recreational facilities. Additionally, other popular areas for expats include Tiong Bahru – nicknamed Singapore’s Brooklyn due to its artsy side – and Holland Village, a well-connected district known for its vibrant and “hipster” environment.